Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a citizen to be admitted to NIU?

No, citizenship status is not a requirement for admission. However, Illinois residency is required for in-state tuition. In order to qualify for in-state tuition, you must complete theNIU Affidavit. All information you share with the university is confidential according to theFamily Educational and Privacy Act(FERPA) guidelines.

When completing the NIU application: How do I fill out the social security question?

Leave the paper application blank and proceed as directed.

On the online application complete the citizenship portion as it best describes your current immigration status. Then proceed to answer the Non-citizen Status prompts.

What are the requirements of Public Act 93-0007 (HB-60)?

Will the information I provide in the Admissions application be shared with Immigration Services?

What is an ITIN?

The ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a tax processing number, issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), for certain resident and non-resident aliens, their spouses, and their dependents. It's a nine-digit number beginning with the number “9” and is formatted like a SSN (example: 9XX-7X-XXXX). For more information visitThe IRS website.

Can I apply for financial aid?

Undocumented students are not eligible for State or Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA). However, students that are U.S. citizens whose parents are undocumented are eligible to complete the FAFSA as long as parents file income taxes with an ITIN. For additional information contact the financial aid office and request staff with expertise in working with undocumented students.

I am DACAmented; am I eligible for FAFSA?

No, undocumented students with DACA are still undocumented and are not eligible to receive state and federal aid and should not complete the FAFSA.

Can an ITIN be used on the FAFSA?

No. ITINs are used for tax purposes only and are not intended to serve any other purpose.

Am I eligible for Scholarships?

Undocumented students are eligible for scholarships as long as they meet the scholarship criteria. Many NIU scholarships are awarded based only on academic merit or talent. NIU scholarships can be identified by utilizing the Scholarship Finder tool.

In addition, there are many private organizations that award scholarships based upon a variety of criteria. Refer to this list ofundocumented-friendly resources.

If I am a transfer student do I still need to submit my high school transcripts?

Yes, in order to satisfy the requirements ofPublic Act 93-0007(HB 60) students must submit official high school transcripts to show proof of being in an Illinois school for at least three years.

Am I required to register for a set number of classes?

No, students are not required to register for a specific amount of classes. However, students will need to understand that it may take a little longer to complete a degree if they take less than 12 credits a semester. In addition, some scholarships may have a requirement of being a full-time student. *A full time student must be enrolled for 12 credits

Does my current immigration status limit my choice of majors at NIU?

There may be some majors that will require additional licensure and certification requirements. It is important for students to be aware of such requirements prior to declaring a major. Students should consult with the Major Program Advisor for requirements. Currently in the state of Illinois undocumented students are able to take the teacher licensure exams, background checks, and board exams for nursing. Students should consult with the major program advisor.

What happens if I am admitted to NIU as an undocumented student, but then my immigration status changes?

Students will need to submit this new information to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Student Financial Aid Office and discuss FAFSA eligibility.

What kind of documentation do I need to get the NIUOne Card (this is NIU’s student/staff identification card)?

Students can process theNIUOne Cardby providing their ZID to prove that they are admitted and enrolled students at NIU.